The upcoming Betfair Ascot Chase presents a compelling contest, with Jonbon, an undefeated force at the venue, favored to win. However, Pic D'Orhy, the two-time reigning champion, poses a significant challenge, aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive victory. This event is more than just a race; it's a test of endurance and form for both horses, with their performances likely influencing future racing plans, particularly for the Cheltenham Festival.
The Runners and Their Recent Form
Jonbon, trained by Nicky Henderson, has a remarkable record at Ascot, securing victories in the last two renewals of the Clarence House Chase. Despite this established success, his most recent outing saw him finish runner-up in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton. Odds reflect his status as the favorite, with many bookmakers listing him at 4/9.
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Pic D'Orhy, under the tutelage of Paul Nicholls, is the defending champion and seeks a hat-trick. While he has won this race twice before, his form leading up to this event includes three defeats since his last Ascot victory. Despite these setbacks, his previous wins at the course lend him considerable respect. He is currently positioned as the second favorite, with odds around 2/1.
Other notable contenders include:
Edwardstone: Trained by Alan King, this 12-year-old demonstrated strong form with a win in the Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton. He is considered a third favorite.
Etalon, Heltenham, and Riskintheground: These three horses are trained by Dan Skelton. Etalon secured a handicap win at Ascot earlier in the season.
Blow Your Wad (trained by Gary & Josh Moore) and Classic Maestro (trained by Jennie Candlish) are also entered, alongside Heltenham and Riskintheground.
L'Homme Presse, last year's runner-up, is also a declared runner, with Venetia Williams as trainer and Charlie Deutsch as jockey. His last outing saw him defeat Pic D'Orhy's stablemate, Stage Star, in the Cotswold Chase.
Betting Market Analysis
The betting market clearly favors Jonbon. His undefeated record at Ascot and consistent top-level wins make him a strong contender.
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| Horse | Odds (Betfair/Paddy Power) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jonbon | 1/2 - 4/9 | Unbeaten at Ascot, two-time Clarence House Chase winner. |
| Pic D'Orhy | 2/1 | Two-time defending champion of the Ascot Chase. |
| Edwardstone | 7/1 | Recent winner of Silviniaco Conti Chase. |
| Etalon | 25/1 | Won a handicap race at Ascot earlier in the season. |
| Others | 33/1 - 100/1 | Blow Your Wad, Classic Maestro, Heltenham, Riskingtheground, Lowry's Bar |
The disparity in odds suggests bookmakers perceive Jonbon as having a distinct advantage.
Key Performance Metrics and Considerations
Ascot Form: Jonbon's undefeated record at Ascot is a significant factor. Pic D'Orhy also has a strong history at this track, having won the last two renewals of the Ascot Chase.
Recent Wins: Jonbon’s win in the Clarence House Chase is a recent boost, though his last outing resulted in a second-place finish. Pic D'Orhy's recent form has been mixed, with three defeats since his last victory at Ascot.
Trip: The Ascot Chase is run over two miles and five furlongs. This is a step up in trip for Jonbon, who has often excelled over shorter distances. For Pic D'Orhy, this distance is within his proven capabilities.
Ground Conditions: Reports suggest the ground is likely to be testing, which could favor horses accustomed to such conditions and potentially penalize those with less stamina or experience on heavy ground.
Contrasting Prospects: Jonbon's Dominance vs. Pic D'Orhy's Defense
Jonbon's Case: His advocates point to his unblemished record at Ascot and his proven ability to win Grade 1 races. His trainer, Nicky Henderson, is a formidable force in racing. The step up in trip is a question, but his class might overcome this challenge. His recent win in the Clarence House Chase, albeit a shorter distance, demonstrates his current fitness.
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Pic D'Orhy's Case: His supporters emphasize his proven success in this specific race, having won it for the past two years. Trainer Paul Nicholls is currently in a rich vein of form, with a reported strike rate of 35 percent in February. Pic D'Orhy has demonstrated resilience, as seen in his win where he stayed on strongly after appearing to be beaten. The longer distance is seen as a potential positive. However, his recent performances against a competitive field have not always resulted in victory.
Expert Opinions and Insights
"They’re nothing to do with Burnley!" - Max McNeill, Blackburn fan, regarding ownership colors, highlighting the nuances of horse ownership.
"Paul Nicholls will rely on one of his most faithful servants in Pic D'Orhy as he bids to keep his recent hot streak going in Saturday's feature Betfair Ascot Chase, a race he described on Monday as 'a straight shootout' between the dual winner and Jonbon." - Racing Post
"Jonbon is set for a return to Ascot this weekend as he headlines eight entries for the Grade 1 Ascot Chase." - Sportinglife.com
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These statements indicate the high anticipation surrounding the race and the perceived head-to-head nature of the contest.
Conclusion and Forward Outlook
The Betfair Ascot Chase is set to be a highly anticipated event, primarily due to the direct confrontation between Jonbon and Pic D'Orhy. Jonbon enters the race as the betting favorite, buoyed by his undefeated record at Ascot. Pic D'Orhy, the two-time defending champion, aims to leverage his course expertise and his trainer's current strong form to achieve a remarkable hat-trick.
The extended trip of the Ascot Chase presents a tactical consideration for Jonbon, while Pic D'Orhy's recent performances will be under scrutiny. The prevailing ground conditions are also expected to play a role. The outcome of this race will not only determine the winner of the Ascot Chase but may also significantly shape the future racing strategies for these prominent contenders, particularly as they look towards the Cheltenham Festival.
Sources
Racing Insider: https://www.racinginsider.com/racing-news/ascot-chase-2026-odds-and-entries-20260210-0003/
Summary provided insight into odds and favorites for the 2026 Ascot Chase.
Sportinglife.com: https://www.sportinglife.com/racing/news/jonbon-faces-seven-rivals-including-pic-dorhy-in-grade-1-ascot-chase/230275
Provided the list of entries and betting odds from specific bookmakers.
Offered trainer quotes and highlighted Paul Nicholls' recent success rate.
The Irish Field: https://www.theirishfield.ie/racing/news/news-jonbon-takes-on-pic-dorhy-in-betfair-chase-903587
Focused on Jonbon's preparation for the Ascot Chase as part of his Cheltenham Festival buildup.
At The Races: https://m.attheraces.com/news/2026/February/09/pic-d%27orhy-could-face-seven-as-he-chases-ascot-chase-hat-trick
Detailed Pic D'Orhy's quest for a hat-trick and highlighted potential rivals.
Sky Racing World: https://www.skyracingworld.com/news/international/uk-ire-and-europe/2025-02-13/pic-dorhy-heads-six-ascot-chase-declarations/681457
Reported on Pic D'Orhy heading the declarations and mentioned other notable entries like L'Homme Presse.
York Press: https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/sport/24938426.pic-dorhy-rules-supreme-ascot-chase/
Covered Pic D'Orhy's previous victory in the Ascot Chase, describing his front-running style.
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